Classic Mercedes-Benz W123 1970's saloon car. Photo:Jeff Gilbert
Image details
Contributor:
Jeff Gilbert / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
BRYCMPFile size:
36.4 MB (973.6 KB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
4367 x 2911 px | 37 x 24.6 cm | 14.6 x 9.7 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
16 September 2010Location:
Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands, Esher, Surrey, England, BritainMore information:
The Mercedes-Benz W123 cars were produced by the German manufacturer from 1976 to 1985 Prior to the 1976 model year, one could obtain a 240D (116 powered) 240D in the W115 chasis from 1974-1976. The W123 chassis was not the first, albeit best known, to carry the "240D" name. The W123 models surpassed their predecessor, the W114 and W115 models, as the most successful Mercedes, selling 2.7 million cars before replacement by the W124 after 1985. The additional range of smaller Mercedes-Benz W201 models was introduced in 1982. Mercedes-Benz introduced the W123 four-door versions in January, 1976[3]. While there were some technical similarities to their predecessors, the new models were larger in wheelbase and exterior dimensions. The styling was also updated, although stylistic links with the W115 were maintained. Initially, all models except 280/280E featured quad unequal-size round headlights and the latter large rectangular units. When facelifted these units became standard across the range. All W115 engines were carried over, with the 3 litre 5-cylinder diesel model being renamed from "240D 3.0" to "300D" (as it had already been called before in North American markets). The only new engine was the 250's 2525 cc inline-six (Type M123, a short-stroke version of the 2.8 litre six Type M110) that replaced the old 2496 cc Type M114 six. In the spring of 1976, a coupé version was introduced on a shorter wheelbase than the saloon (2, 710 mm (106.7 in) versus 2, 795 mm (110.0 in)) for the saloon. This W123C/CE was available as a 230C (later 230CE) and as a 280C/CE in most markets; in North America there were additional 300CD versions with naturally aspirated, later turbocharged 3 litre diesel engines. It is a tribute to the car's instant popularity – and possibly to the caution built into the production schedules – that nine months after its introduction, a black market had developed in Germany for Mercedes-Benz W123s available for immediate delivery.